Month: November 2017

If you love to drive your car, you may have considered a career in the transportation industry as a truck driver. Though a passion for the open road can help you find success in your new job, it is important to recognize the ways in which truck driving differs from your everyday commute. To get a feel for the differences, read ahead.

A Long-Haul

There are regional and local trucking jobs, but many drivers will pursue long-distance trucking careers that take them across the nation. During these trips, you’ll find yourself behind the wheel for many hours at a time, and you will be driving for several days in a row. Therefore, it’s important to prepare for life on the road with healthy habits like avoiding smoking, eating right, and exercising daily.

Specialized Equipment

You cannot operate a commercial truck without a commercial driver’s license, or CDL. When you get your CDL, you will need to demonstrate that you can use common trucking equipment, which requires a unique skillset. You need to get used to driving a large, heavy vehicle, which can be tougher to maneuver in situations like parking, lane changes, and other regular driving scenarios.

Unique Rules of the Road

In addition to knowing how to operate your semi-truck, you will need to know the unique laws that apply to truckers on the road. While driving on the interstate, for example, you may have a lower speed limit to follow as well as restrictions for passing and changing lanes.

If you want to get a closer look at careers in trucking or prepare for your future on the open road, attend an open house at Phoenix Truck Driving School Ft Bliss. You can get more information about our CDL prep courses and hands-on training by visiting our website or calling us at (877) 206-8344.

If you are thinking about making any kind of career change, one of your first considerations may be how much money you can make in your new job. A paycheck may not be the only reason you work, but it can be good motivation when it comes to pursuing new career opportunities. In the United States, truckers are well-compensated—even in entry-level positions—and there are many additional benefits that can be expected for those who work full-time. To learn if a trucking career may be in your future, take a look at the type of salary you can expect.

Your Starting Salary

Solo, over-the-road truckers comprise much of the workforce on the road, and these individuals take regional and long-haul trips with a wide variety of cargo. In your first job as a trucker, you might expect to take home about $40,000 annually with opportunities for bonuses.

Your Earning Potential

As you gain experience as a driver, you might think about your career growth. One path you might take is specializing in specific types of cargo, such as hazardous materials. With certification in niche trucking jobs, you can increase your earnings substantially. Alternatively, you may consider partnering with a fellow driver to take on more lucrative team driving positions, or you might strive to become an owner-operator running your own business as a trucker.

Your Benefits Package

Most trucking jobs will be full-time positions, which means that you’ll be eligible for benefits such as health insurance and paid time off. Many truckers enjoy longer periods of time off after long trips on the road, and this benefit of the job can facilitate a more fulfilling family life at home.

If you’re ready to explore your potential as a trucking professional, Phoenix Truck Driving School Ft. Bliss can help you get there. Our training programs are designed to fully prepare drivers for their careers, and we offer a variety of financial assistance to help you get started. Learn more online, or give us a call at (877) 206-8344.